(vi) Promotion of Literacy and Printing: The missionaries introduced printing presses and promoted the culture of reading and writing. They published books, newspapers, hymn books, catechisms, and Christian literature in both English and local languages. This development improved communication and education and encouraged intellectual growth among Nigerians. The printing industry also contributed significantly to the spread of Christian teachings and Western education.

(vii) Economic and Agricultural Development: The missionaries contributed to economic development by encouraging agriculture and vocational training. They introduced improved farming techniques and trained people in skills such as carpentry, tailoring, bricklaying, and printing. Through these activities, many Nigerians acquired practical skills that enabled them to become self-reliant and economically productive. Their efforts also helped to improve the standard of living in many communities.

(viii) Promotion of Unity and Moral Values: The missionaries preached Christian virtues such as love, honesty, forgiveness, humility, justice, and peaceful coexistence. Their teachings helped to reduce hostility and promoted unity among people from different ethnic and social backgrounds. They emphasized the importance of good character and responsible living, thereby contributing to the moral development of society. The values they promoted continue to influence Nigerian social and religious life today.

In conclusion, the early missionaries made remarkable contributions to the development of Nigeria. Through the spread of Christianity, establishment of schools and hospitals, translation of the Bible, promotion of literacy, social reforms, and economic development, they transformed many aspects of Nigerian society. Their achievements laid a strong foundation for modern education, healthcare, Christianity, and national development in Nigeria.

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The Church Missionary Society (CMS) was founded in England in 1799 with the aim of spreading Christianity and promoting social development in Africa and other parts of the world. In West Africa, particularly in Sierra Leone and Nigeria, the CMS recorded remarkable successes in the areas of evangelism, education, social reforms, healthcare, and leadership development. Its activities greatly influenced the growth of Christianity and modern civilization in the region.

Successes of the Church Missionary Society (CMS) in West Africa includes;

(i) Successful Spread of Christianity: The CMS successfully spread Christianity to many parts of West Africa, especially Sierra Leone and Nigeria. Through the efforts of missionaries and indigenous evangelists, many people converted from traditional religions to Christianity. The society established numerous churches and mission stations in places such as Badagry, Abeokuta, Onitsha, and Niger Delta communities. As a result, Christianity became firmly rooted in many parts of West Africa.

(ii) Establishment of Schools and Promotion of Western Education: One of the greatest successes of the CMS was the establishment of schools. The society founded many primary and secondary schools where people received both secular and religious education. These schools produced educated Africans who later became teachers, clergy, civil servants, and political leaders. The CMS believed that education would help converts understand the Bible and contribute positively to society.

(iii) Translation of the Bible into Indigenous Languages: The CMS translated the Bible and other Christian materials into local languages such as Yoruba, Igbo, and Efik. This made Christianity easier for the people to understand and accept. The translation work also promoted literacy and helped preserve and develop indigenous languages. Many converts were able to read the Scriptures in their native languages and participate actively in church life.

(iv) Training and Ordination of Indigenous Clergy: The CMS trained many Africans as pastors, catechists, teachers, and evangelists. This enabled the church to expand rapidly because local workers understood the languages and cultures of the people better than foreign missionaries. The ordination of African clergy, such as Samuel Ajayi Crowther, marked a major success in the indigenization of Christianity. It also encouraged Africans to assume leadership positions within the church.

(v) Establishment of Medical and Social Services: The CMS established hospitals, clinics, and dispensaries to cater for the health needs of the people. Through these institutions, many diseases were treated, and public health conditions improved. The society also promoted sanitation and proper hygiene practices. These medical services increased the acceptance of Christianity and improved the welfare of many communities.

(vi) Campaign against the Slave Trade and Other Social Evils: The CMS actively opposed the slave trade and other harmful traditional practices. It condemned human sacrifice, the killing of twins, and various forms of oppression and superstition. Through preaching and education, the society promoted the dignity and equality of all human beings before God. Its efforts contributed significantly to social reforms and the protection of human rights in West Africa.

(vii) Promotion of Literacy and Printing: The CMS introduced printing presses and published books, newspapers, hymn books, and religious tracts. This encouraged reading and writing among Africans and facilitated the spread of Christian teachings. The availability of printed materials also promoted intellectual development and communication in the region. Consequently, literacy levels increased in many mission areas.

(viii) Promotion of Peace, Morality, and Social Development: The CMS taught Christian values such as love, honesty, forgiveness, humility, and peaceful coexistence. These teachings helped reduce social conflicts and encouraged moral living among converts. The society also contributed to community development through the establishment of churches, schools, and welfare programmes. Its activities fostered unity and promoted social transformation in many parts of West Africa.

In conclusion, the Church Missionary Society achieved remarkable success in West Africa through the spread of Christianity, establishment of schools and medical institutions, translation of the Bible, training of indigenous clergy, and the promotion of social reforms and moral values. The CMS laid a strong foundation for the growth of Christianity and modern development in West Africa, and its contributions continue to have a lasting impact on the region today.

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Polygamy is a system of marriage in which a man has more than one wife at the same time. Although it is accepted in some African traditional societies, the Christian church generally upholds monogamy as God’s ideal for marriage. Polygamous homes often create several challenges for children, affecting their emotional, educational, social, and spiritual development.

Problems of Polygamy in the Church as it Affects the Children includes;

(i) Rivalry and Jealousy among Children: Polygamous families often experience competition and jealousy among the children of different wives. Each group of children may struggle for their father’s attention, love, and inheritance. This rivalry frequently leads to quarrels, hatred, and division among siblings. Such an atmosphere of hostility can negatively affect the children’s emotional growth and family relationships.

(ii) Inadequate Parental Care and Attention: In a polygamous family, a father may find it difficult to provide equal care and attention to all his children. Because of the large family size, some children may feel neglected and unloved. The lack of proper parental guidance can lead to emotional problems and behavioural issues. Children who feel neglected may become rebellious or develop low self-esteem.

(iii) Financial Difficulties: Polygamy often places a heavy financial burden on the family because the father has many dependents to cater for. As a result, some children may lack adequate food, clothing, healthcare, and educational opportunities. Financial hardship can cause children to drop out of school or engage in child labour. The inability of parents to meet their needs may also expose children to poverty and suffering.

(iv) Poor Educational Development: Due to limited financial resources and unequal treatment, some children in polygamous homes are denied quality education. Parents may find it difficult to pay school fees and provide educational materials for all their children. This can hinder the intellectual development and future prospects of the children. Consequently, many children from such homes may fail to achieve their full potential.

(v) Emotional and Psychological Problems: Children raised in polygamous families often experience emotional stress arising from family conflicts and competition among co-wives. Constant disputes within the family may create fear, anxiety, and insecurity in the minds of the children. Such children may develop feelings of rejection, frustration, and loneliness. These emotional problems can affect their behaviour and relationships with others.

(vi) Lack of Unity and Family Instability: Polygamous homes are often characterized by division and tension between wives and their children. This unhealthy environment prevents children from enjoying peace and unity within the family. Family instability may make children grow up without proper moral and emotional support. As a result, they may find it difficult to develop healthy social relationships.

(vii) Inheritance Disputes: Polygamous families frequently experience disagreements over inheritance and property sharing. Children may become involved in conflicts concerning their rights and privileges within the family. Such disputes can create bitterness and hatred among siblings and sometimes continue even after the death of the father. These conflicts often destroy family unity and affect the children’s sense of belonging.

(viii) Spiritual and Moral Challenges: The church’s teaching on monogamy may place children from polygamous homes in difficult situations. Some of them may feel rejected or discriminated against in church activities because of their family background. This may affect their self-esteem and spiritual growth. In some cases, the confusion arising from conflicting cultural and religious values may weaken their commitment to Christian teachings.

In conclusion, although polygamy is accepted in some traditional societies, it creates several problems for children, including rivalry, financial hardship, inadequate parental care, emotional stress, educational setbacks, and inheritance disputes. These challenges can negatively affect the children’s physical, social, and spiritual development. Therefore, the Christian church encourages monogamy because it promotes family stability, proper upbringing of children, and harmonious relationships within the home.